Judith Stearns Rutscher

Judith Stearns Rutscher, age 92, of Stillwater, MN, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 9, 2026.

Funeral services will be held at 11a.m. on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Stillwater, MN, with Pastor Nathan Baker-Trinity officiating. A visitation will begin an hour prior and graveside services will be held at a future date to be determined at Elmhurst Cemetery, St. Paul, MN.

Judith was born to Clarence and Eunice (Witham) Stearns on November 22, 1933, and grew up in St. Paul, MN. She graduated from St. Paul Central High School and thereafter earned a B.S. Degree in Education for Science and Mathematics at the University of Minnesota.

She married Arthur Rutscher II on June 18, 1955. They were married for 60+ years and lived in Milwaukee, WI for their first years, later moved to Roseville, MN before moving to their home of 50+ years in Stillwater, MN. Arthur and Judith had four children: Pamela, Arthur III, Robert, and Steven.

She taught math and science for several years before taking time off to raise her four children. She returned to the University of Minnesota, where she earned an MBA in Accounting, became a CPA, and enjoyed an exceptional career at FMC. Judith's blend of personal care, intellect, and desire for action made her a magnet for many people. She was devoted to her husband, children, grandchildren, and family. She loved being a mother and spoiling her grandchildren any chance she got. Judith's faith was incredibly important to her; she was involved with St. Paul's Lutheran Church for many years and led with love in all that she did. She enjoyed time with family at a summer resort, playing piano and handbells (purchasing hand bells for the church), attending book club, cross country trips with her husband to visit her sister in California, and training her 3 dogs as therapy dogs.

She was preceded in death by her husband Arthur Rutscher II, parents Clarence and Eunice (Witham) Stearns, her sister Margaret (Paul) Haley, and granddaughter Christine M. Rutscher.

She is survived by her children: Pamela (Scott), Arthur III (Carol), Robert (Carol), and Steven (Susan); grandchildren: Kim, Beth, Nicole, Brian, Nathan, Rob, Claire, Emily, Bailey, Zachary, Katelyn, and Riley; 10 great-grandchildren, Cousin Nancy Morton, and nephew Mark Haley.